Not sure if the ideal steel will fit, my fireplace is about the same size and I went with the progress hybrid, all the jotuls should fit. Then again if you want to build out your hearth any rear venter will fit. The buck stoves would fit though not rear vent but their stoves can be used as freestanding or insert.
I think your wise to get a freestander, I had an insert and switched and it makes a big difference.
I think your wise to get a freestander, I had an insert and switched and it makes a big difference.